Systems and methods are described herein for adjusting a transparency of a map overlay. A mapping application generates for display the map overlay at a first level of transparency depicting at least a portion of a route. The mapping application receives an indication of a current location on the route and based on the current location, detects an upcoming directional change on the route. In response to detecting the upcoming directional change, the mapping application adjusts the transparency of the map overlay to a second level of transparency.